Undergraduate Services

Office of Undergraduate Programs' team

The Office of Undergraduate Programs is pleased to welcome you at the Faculty of Science.

Our academic advisors and academic assistants are committed to provide you with guidance throughout your studies so that your learning experience here proves as stimulating and enriching as possible. Your success is our number one priority! We encourage you to come see us for any questions or concerns you may have.

Until then, we wish you all the best in your studies. Looking forward to meeting you!

Your success is our top priority!

At the Faculty of Science, we recognize that the transition from high school or CEGEP to university represents a major challenge for you. That's why we have support services for our new students.

An example is the one-week mathematics workshop in August to review the high school material you need for your first-year math courses. Help centres in mathematics, physics, chemistry and biochemistry are at the disposal of students who need help in those courses. They are in classrooms, staffed by consultants who can answer all your questions.

In addition, the Faculty asks professors who teach first-year courses to test new students early in the trimester and forward their interim grades to the coordinator of the Centre for Academic Success. The coordinator - a former high-school science teacher - studies the files, then meets with students who may be encountering difficulties in their courses and discusses possible solutions with them (time management, counselling, tutorials, etc.).

Help for students taking BCH 2333/2733 courses

From January 14 to April 19, 2019*

*The Help Centre will be closed during Reading Week (February 18-22, 2019)

Chemistry Help Centre

Help for students taking first and second year chemistry courses

From January 14 to April 18, 2019*

STEM Complex - 150 Louis-Pasteur, room 207

Some students may have trouble understanding concepts introduced in Chemistry courses. The Help Centre is staffed by expert consultants who can help you and is open to all students registered to the first and second year courses.

Days

Time

Monday

9 am - 2 pm

Tuesday

11 am - 4 pm

Wednesday

9 am - 2 pm

Thursday

11 am - 4 pm

*The Chemistry Help Centre will be closed during Reading Week (February 18-22, 2019)

Mathematics and Statistics Help Centre

Help for students taking first-year mathematics courses

From January 14 to April 5, 2019*

STEM Complex, room 207

Some students may have trouble understanding concepts introduced in mathematics or statistics courses. If you are in this situation, you have many options to get help. The Mathematics and Statistics Help Centreis one of these. The Help Centre is staffed by expert consultants who can help you.

The Help Centre is open to all students registered to the first and second year courses listed below.

Courses serviced by the help center - Mathematics

MAT1300/1700

MAT1302/1702

MAT1308/1708

MAT1318/MAT1718

MAT1320/1720

MAT1322/1722

MAT1330/1730

MAT1332/1732

MAT1339/MAT1739

MAT1341/1741

MAT1348/1748

Days

Time

Monday to Wednesday

10 am - 7 pm

Thursday

10 am - 5 pm

Friday

10 am - 3 pm

*During the study break (February 18-22), the Math Center will be open from 10 am to 3 pm Wednesday to Friday (closed Monday, Feb. 18 and Tuesday, Feb. 19). A special schedule for Study and Exam period (April 8 to 25) will be announced later.

Courses serviced by the help center - Statistics

MAT1372/1772

MAT2377/2777

MAT2379/2779

Dates

Time

Monday and Wednesday

10 am - 3 pm

*During the study break (February 18-22), the Stat Center is open ONLY on Wednesday February 20 from 10:00 to 3:00. There will be a special schedule for the Study and Exam period (April 8 to 25) to be announced later.

Instructions

To get some help from the staff at the Help Centre, you should first carefully read the following instructions:

The first thing to do when you arrive at the Help Centre is to write in the registration book your name, the name of your faculty, and the name and number of the course for which you need help.

Wait for us to call on you.

Be prepared: To avoid wasting time, put bookmarks at the pages relating to your questions, make a list of the questions you want to ask, etc. Prepare precise questions if possible.

Try to describe as precisely as you can the problems that you have. To do this, it is very useful to show to the consultant a sample of what you have tried to do so that he or she may try to diagnose your problems.

When trying to solve a problem, try to find similarities between your problem and other exercises or examples done in class, and think of all methods of solution that you know.

The consultants are there to help you -- They are not there to do your homework. When a consultant asks you what you think of this or that method, you should take it as a hint on how to solve your problem.

Generally, there is no time limit on individual consultations. However, when the Help Centre is crowded, it may happen that we limit individual consultations to 10 or 15 minutes. In this case, you are welcome to sign up for another consultation immediately after ending your consultation. Moreover, when there are a lot of students, we often do group consultations, answering all questions relating to a given course.

The following table gives the location and schedule of the Help Centre. The location and schedule may be modified between semesters and even during a semester. Please, consult on a regular basis the following table for the latest modifications. The Help Centre is also open during the period for the final exams. The schedule of the help center during the period for the final exams will be added to this table a few weeks before the beginning of this period.

Physics Help Centre

Help for students taking first-year physics courses

From January 14 to April 18, 2019*

STEM Complex - 150 Louis-Pasteur, room 207

Days

Time

Monday

2:30 pm - 5:30 pm

Tuesday

5:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Wednesday

2:30 pm - 5:30 pm

and

7:00 pm - 8:30 pm

Thursday

4:00 pm - 7:00 pm

*The Help Centre will be closed during Reading Week (February 18-22, 2019)

Study Groups

Need some extra help with your Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics or Physics course?

Student Academic Success Services (SASS), in collaboration with the Faculty of Science, is offering free study groups for students registered in the above-mentioned courses.

These study groups will closely reflect the material learned in class each week and will give you an opportunity to work through problems that resemble evaluations and assignments.

A student mentor will lead the study groups.

From January 14 to April 5, 2019*

Course Code

Schedule

Room

BIO1140

Wednesday, 6:00 pm to 7:20 pm

MRN 133

CHM13211

Monday, 6:00 pm to 7:20 pm

MRN 133

MAT1332

Thursday, 6:00 pm to 7:20 pm

MRN 133

PHY1322

Tuesday, 6:00 pm to 7:20 pm

MRN 133

Hope to see you there.

*The study groups won't be available during Study Week (February 18-22, 2019)1 This study group will start on Monday, January 21, 2019

Registration procedure

Regular students: registration for summer courses starts on April 4, 2019 for students currently registered in a program of study (online registration).

New students: students newly admitted to the University of Ottawa for the Fall 2019 term will be able to register to the summer term as a special student (online) starting April 17, 2019. Please refer to the Special students enrolment page.

Tuition fees

To avoid late payment fees, tuition fees must be paid by July 15, 2019. For further information, please visit the Financial Resources web site.

Secondary V Quebec students only (or Cegep)

The following is intended for Secondary V Quebec students only (or Cegep) admitted with the condition to complete bridging courses in mathematics (MAT1318 and MAT1339).

In order to complete the admission requirements, please consider the following options:

MAT1318

Option 1: Self-Evaluation Test

Test to be completed online (25 questions). If a successful grade is obtained (17/25), you are exempted from completing the course MAT1318 and you may register to MAT1339 or its equivalent.

To access the test site, you are required to buy a license at the cost of $24.95 + tx ($28.20). The license will be valid for one year and will also give you access to the MAT1320, MAT1330, MAT1322 and MAT1332 homework.

Option 2: Complete the courses or its equivalent

MAT1339

Option 1: Challenge exam

Exam written at the University (on campus) at a fixed date and time in August.

You prepare for the exam on your own during the summer. You will have access to the course website (course outline, copies of practice tests and exams, textbook used, etc.) as well as the e-mail address of the professor should you have any questions regarding the course content. (Permission to write the challenge exam must be confirmed by the Faculty of Science).

2018: exam will take place during the August 28-31 exam period (date and time will be posted (mid-May) on the uOttawa website)

Passing grade is "65%". Should you obtain a mark lower than 65%, you will be required to complete the course during the Fall term.

Option 2: Complete the course or its equivalent

NB: MAT1318 must be completed before starting MAT1339

If you have any further questions about courses in mathematics at the University of Ottawa, please do not hesitate to contact us. We wish you excellent success in your studies at the University of Ottawa!

Frequently asked questions

I intend to write the Self-Evaluation Test for MAT1318 this summer. What happens if I do not obtain the passing grade?

The student who does not obtain at least 17/25 on the test will have to complete the course or its equivalent.

The result obtained in the Self-Evaluation Test (MAT1318) is used only to exempt (or not) from taking the make-up course MAT1318. It does not appear on the transcript and it is not included in the average.

I intend to write the challenge exam for MAT1339 this summer. What happens if I do not obtain the passing grade?

The student who does not obtain at least 65% on the challenge exam will have to complete the course or its equivalent.

The satisfactory (S) grade obtained for the challenge exam (MAT1339) is used to fulfill the admission condition. Consequently, it will appear on an official transcript but will not count in the average. If the challenge exam is not successful, no grade will be entered until you complete the course. The final mark received (satisfactory (S) or not satisfactory (NS)) for the course is considered official and will appear on the transcript. In both cases, it does not count in the average.

I intend to take the course MAT1318 and/or MAT1339. Will my final mark(s) count in my average?

No. As these are admission requirements, while the marks (satisfactory (S) or not satisfactory (NS)) will show on an official transcript, they will not be used in the calculation of the average.

If I decide to write the challenge exam in MAT1339 in August, but later change my mind and wish to register to the course in the Fall instead, can I do it?

Yes. Simply let us know by email as soon as possible (infosci@uOttawa.ca) – before the exam date - and we will make the required changes in your file.

I intend to write the challenge exam for MAT1339 in August. Why are you registering me to the course for the Fall term?

Registration is required to follow-up on the admission condition. If however we were to register you for the summer term, this would entail summer tuition fees even though you would not be attending it. Since the fees as a full-time student (minimum 12 credits) are the same whether you have four or more courses registered, by adding this course to your Fall term, your tuition fees remain unchanged.

MAT1339 shows up on my official fall schedule even though I successfully completed the challenge exam. Does this mean I have to attend that course?

No. Even if it appears in your schedule, you do not need to attend. A successful challenge exam in MAT1339 means the course is completed. A grade of S (satisfactory) will appear in your file.

CEGEP Students

The following is intended for CEGEP students entering a program in Science or Engineering who have completed a CEGEP course in Linear Algebra (201-NYC, 201-704 or equivalent course code)

The CEGEP courses in Algebra are unfortunately not equivalent to MAT1341 (Introduction to Linear Algebra), which is a required course in many programs in Science and Engineering. MAT1341 is also a prerequisite to several second year courses you may need to take.

So as not to unduly delay your studies, and taking into account the significant content of the CEGEP Algebra courses, please consider the following options open to you:

The course MAT1341 is offered at the University of Ottawa in the spring-summer term. Completing the course over the summer could allow you a seamless transition to your second-year studies. Please consult the schedule of the course.

If your CEGEP Algebra course covered additional material (in particular, eigenvalues, eigenvectors and diagonalization), you may be in a position to request to write a challenge exam for credit in the first week of August. Contact the Department of Mathematics and Statistics for details.

Provided that you successfully completed a CEGEP Algebra course you can take MAT1341 in the fall term and you will be permitted to register in the fall as well for any of the following courses which are required for your program:

MAT2122 : Multivariable Calculus

MAT2322 : Calculus III for Engineers

MAT2362 : Foundations of Mathematics.

On the other hand, you must complete MAT1341 before you may take any of the following courses:

MAT2141 : Linear Algebra I

MAT2324 : Ordinary Differential Equations and the Laplace Transform

MAT2342 : Introduction to Applied Linear Algebra

MAT2384 :Ordinary Differential Equations and Numerical Methods.

If you have any further questions about courses in mathematics at the University of Ottawa, please do not hesitate to contact us.

We wish you excellent success in your studies at the University of Ottawa!

This section is for international applicants from Morocco only who must write the MAT1339 challenge exam to fulfill the admission conditions. To be eligible to write the challenge exam, you must first register to the MAT1339 course in your first study term.

Mandatory registration to MAT1339 course

Course registration is done online and starts in May (see enrolment).You must first have accepted your offer of admission in order to be able to enroll to courses.

Once you have completed the course registration, you will be able to register for the challenge exam.

What happens if I do not obtain the passing grade? Will my offer of admission be cancelled?

The offer of admission will remain but the student who does not obtain at least 65% on the challenge exam will have to complete the MAT1339 course or its equivalent. However, you must fulfil all other admission conditions.

The satisfactory (S) grade obtained for the challenge exam is used to fulfil the admission condition. Consequently, it will appear on your official transcript but will not count in the average. If the challenge exam is not successful, no grade will be entered until you complete the course. The final mark received (satisfactory (S) or not satisfactory (NS)) for the course is considered official and will appear on the transcript. In both cases, it does not count in the average.

MAT1339 shows up on my official fall schedule even though I successfully completed the challenge exam. Does this mean I have to attend the course?

No. Even if it appears in your schedule, you do not need to attend. A successful challenge exam in MAT1339 means the course is completed. A grade of S (satisfactory) will eventually be posted in your file.

I have completed the equivalent course in High School, can I be exempted?

If the challenge exam is one of your admission conditions, you cannot be exempted even if you believe you have completed all components of MAT1339.

Why do I have to write a challenge exam?

The challenge exam will be used to confirm your knowledge in mathematics and determine if you can be exempted from completing the course. If you do not succeed in the exam, you will need to complete the course.

I do not want to write the challenge exam, I want to complete the course.

August 19th to 23rd, 2019

Welcome to mathematics at the University of Ottawa. We are here to help you succeed!

First-year math courses can be a stumbling block for many students. With regular work habits and a bit of foresight and preparation, you can make sure that you will succeed. The Department of Mathematics and Statistics wants to help you in every possible way.

Take a self-diagnostic test. This self-scored test is carefully designed by the Department of Mathematics and Statistics to help you assess your readiness for the introductory University level Calculus and Algebra courses in your program.

Enroll in our August Math Workshops. These workshops are aimed at students who earned less than 80% in high school mathematics, or have been away from mathematics for a while, or who struggled with the self-diagnostic test. The workshops run from August 19th to 23rd, 2019; details below.

In September, choose to take advantage of the many opportunities available to you to help you strengthen your mathematical skills. Principal among these are review sessions and diagnostic tests offered in your classes, the Math Help Centre, formal and informal study groups, and – of course!- your classes, DGDs (tutorials) and your professor’s office hours.

August Math Workshop Details:

Workshop 1: for students registering in MAT 1320, MAT 1330 and/or MAT 1341. This workshop will be held in the Social Science Building, 120 University Private, room 2005 (FSS 2005).

Workshop 2: for students registering in MAT 1300, MAT 1302 and/or MAT 1308 (Economics, Management or Social Sciences). This workshop will be held in the Social Science Building, 120 University Private, room 1030 (FSS 1030).

Each workshop is led by an experienced instructor whose goal is to help you review your high school mathematics and improve your transition to university mathematics studies. Following a careful curriculum, the morning sessions (9:00 to 12:00) and afternoon sessions (1:00 to 3:30) will have a mix of theory, examples and practice by working on exercises with the guidance of your instructor.

The number of places is limited, we encourage you to book a place by registering early. The workshop fee is $75 and is non-refundable. Upon receipt of your registration form (PDF), the workshop fee will be added to your statement of account online. Go to Finances and Jobs in uoZone to access your statement of account.

Your registration to the workshop must be received by August 16th, 2019.

A few rooms are available in residence by email or by calling 1-888-564-4545.

If you have any questions, you can contact the Faculty of Science Undergraduate Office at by email or by phone at (613) 562-5727.

Science Preparatory Workshop

Tuesday, August 28 to Friday, August 31, 2018

You will begin your studies at the University of Ottawa in September, and we want to help you succeed!

This four day workshop focuses on key abilities and knowledge to help you succeed when you begin your studies in the Faculty of Science at the University of Ottawa. All students taking science courses can benefit from this workshop.

The goal of the workshop is to help you:

Get familiarized with the campus, find your classrooms, and learn how to find and use the resources available such as the Student Academic Success Service, Science Students’ Association, help centers, and library.

Gets tips on how to take notes, study, and prepare for exams effectively in your upcoming courses.

Learn what to expect from your studies in terms of workload and required time commitment, as well as how to manage your time and stress.

Meet other incoming students to the Faculty of Science as well as upper year student mentors and some of your future professors.

Learn about the many opportunities that exist such as research programs and extracurricular activities.

Testimonials

“The Science preparatory workshop was very beneficial. I learned new study methods that I used throughout my whole first year at University. We received a lot of extremely useful information on the resources offered by the Faculty. I met and built great friendship with other students.” - Niève Séguin, 3rd year biomedical science student

“The workshop was overall amazing. I do not regret spending my money on it! I had lots of fun, met new people and learned a lot about uOttawa. Thank you for everything!” - Anonymous survey response

“The Science Preparatory workshop have mentally prepared me and informed me of what to come. I really liked the fact that students that have gone through what we have soon to come (mentors) presented most of the workshop.” - Anonymous survey response

“I graduated from high school with a very high average. I was certain that I could maintain a similar average at university by using the same study methods. However, the transition to university studies was a period of great adaptation. We have to adjust to big changes: first time without parents, new friends, new city, new campus, etc. All these changes can be very exciting. If we want to fully benefit from this new environment while maintaining good marks, we need very efficient study habits and excellent time-management skills. When I started in first year, this workshop was not available, but the university did offer one in math. Since I had finished with high marks in high school, I didn’t think that I needed a preparatory course. However, I realized, after a few months, that this would have helped me. My marks would undoubtedly have been higher, I would have been better prepared and I would have had more free time. The goal of this workshop is to help students adapt to this new workload while leading a balanced lifestyle. It’s a golden opportunity to ensure scholastic success!” - Joëlle, Biology graduate

Workshop options

The workshop is offered in English and in French (your choice). A recorded copy of each presentation will be posted online approximately one day after each session is held, however we encourage you to come to campus for the workshop because the presentations will be accompanied with many other activities.
Space is limited, so reserve your spot by registering early.

Questions

If you have any questions, please email our coordinator, Jane, by email.

Accommodations

Students who will stay in residence during the school year have the option to move-in early for the period of the workshop at a cost of $40 per night. To make arrangements, please contact the residences by emailand specify the dates you wish to book and that you are attending the Science Preparatory Workshop.

For those who will stay off campus during the school year, a few rooms are available on the 20th floor of the 90 University residence, however availability is very limited. You can obtain further information by calling 1-888-564-4545 or by email. You can also reserve a room at one of Ottawa’s hotels. For further information regarding hotels, we invite you to visit the Ottawa Tourism’s website.